Bowl coring systems

[jason_r]

Ok, so it's not pens. But I just picked up a pile of 18" mesquite logs
(the 8' one is getting sawn into boards) and figure it would be a waste to
turn pieces that large into that many shavings. Even if my lathe will only do 12",
I'd like to get a few more bowls out of this.

So.. of the various systems out there (center saver, oneway, woodcut bowl saver, ???)
what's good, what's bad, what do you all like and why?

If someone has a larger lathe and wants to trade for/buy a big mesquite
blank, PM me. Gotta keep SWMBO happy.

Thanks

--
Jason
Chandler, AZ

 

[Ron in Drums PA]

You will find pontiffs for each of the brands.

I have a McNaughton.
Many will say the McNaughton has the biggest learning curve but is the most versatile of all. I found it to be simple enough that my first attempt at coring was successful.

On a 12" lathe you should get the smallest set of blades.

PM sent of the mesquite.

Bill Grumbine and Reed Gray have DVDs on the McNaughton

 

[jclark58]

Jason, I own and use the McNaughton on a regular basis. If you're interested you're more than welcome to come over and give it a try in my garage. I believe the learning curve is much steeper than the Oneway or the Woodcut but that initial hurdle is more than offset by the flexability of the system. With the various blades I can core everything from shallow platters to deep vases and everything in between from 4" all the way up to 18". My personal choice for the McNaughton DVD is the one produced by Mike Mahoney.

I also highly recommend a visit to the Arizona Woodturners Association, our next meeting is Saturday October 18th. Email me to setup a visit to try coring and/or for more information on the AWA.

Jason